HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 cc2302-3
27. Dr. Broughton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how far scientific observations are made on aircrews of passenger-carrying aircraft; and to what extent research is being undertaken for the advancement of knowledge in aviation medicine.

Mr. Beswick

Commercial pilots undergo a thorough medical examination twice a year but are not subjected to routine scientific observation unless a specific research project is undertaken. The Flying Personnel Research Committee sponsors continuous research into all matters affecting flying personnel and in 1949 investigations into fatigue in civilian aircrew were made on behalf of that committee.

Dr. Broughton

While welcoming the information, which shows that the Ministry of Civil Aviation have not overlooked this subject, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he agrees that the aircrew of passenger-carrying aircraft, with many years flying experience to their credit, may provide valuable data for the study of fatigue and other possible effects of long-term flying?

Mr. Beswick

I quite agree that it ought to be possible to do something more to study the effects of prolonged flying, and I am having the subject investigated.